Fun and Safe Boating with Kids: A Guide for Happy Family Boating

Mary October 7, 2023 in Life Happens, Activities, Kids Tagged Adventure, Boating, Fun, Outdoors, Safety, Sunscreen, Swimming - 17 Minutes

Let’s create fun and safe memories on the boat together because, life indeed happens with kids! A great family day on the water isn’t just about the fun, fun, fun. It’s about planning, preparation, and the peace of mind that comes with safety. Today, we want to share with you some tips for making your family boating trips even more enjoyable.

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Tips for Safe Boating with Kids by Life Happens With Kids (LHWK)

Kids boating is seriously fun business, but it ain’t for the faint-hearted parent! A boat trip can morph into chaos incarnate when wrangling a herd of youngsters. But don’t fret! Here are some tips from the fun-loving, chaos-surviving crew of Life Happens With Kids aimed at keeping your young boating guest(s) safe and entertained.

First things first, safety reigns supreme! Boating safety is synonymous with responsible parenting in this case. While there are many aspects of safe boating, a life jacket for each family member is most critical. Equip your children with snug life jackets. Teach ’em the importance of wearing one, let ’em pick a funky design of their own, make it a fun family tradition to load up the life vests first on each trip!

Explaining Boat Safety to Smaller Children

Your child is a natural explorer, harness their curiosity towards learning the safety ropes. Make your child’s safety responsibilities crystal clear, keeping the tone light and their interest piqued. Remember, a smart boating guest is a safe one!

Stuff the boat with toys and games to keep the young children occupied. Load up on the SPF, and regularly apply it to your child’s skin. Creating a sun safe family boating experience is no child’s play!

Have frequent breaks for good measure. Dehydration and fatigue are sneaky safety hazards that can affect your children’s wellbeing. So make it a habit to pause to hydrate and replenish energy.

Commit to these safety tips and your boat trip will be a fun one.

Stearns Kids Classic Life Vest

Introducing Older Kids to Safe Boating: A LHWK Guide

So, older kids, they’re our bundles of endless energy ready to jump in at the first site of water, aren’t they? Full of curiosity, always ready to learn and explore, and as parents, it’s our job to slow things down and understand safe boating. At Life Happens With Kids (LHWK), we understand that introducing your child to general boating can be just as exciting as it is anxiety-ridden. As parents ourselves we know it all too well. We can’t bubble-wrap them, but we can definitely throw them a life jacket (Safety tip #1!). So strap in as we plunge into the wavy waters of boat safety for children of different ages.

In this next section, we break it all down for you. How to make the boating experience safe, fun, and a learning-teaching moment for all. We will guide you through essentials for your child’s safety while on a boat. Our tips aren’t only about keeping safety at the forefront, but also about making the entire adventure fun and enjoyable! After all, we want our kids to love boating as much as we do.

Making Safety Fun

Learning safety rules don’t have to be dull! We can make learning fun for kids, and remembering safety rules can be as simple as child’s play. Recreation meets instruction – Remember, life is beautiful, unpredictable and fleeting, just like the waves, but safety for our kids is paramount.

Life Jackets: These are crucial for safety on any water vessel, especially for children. Even if the kids know how to swim, life jackets are still essential in case of emergencies.
Flotation Devices: Besides life jackets, other floatation devices like life rings or throwable flotation aids should be available and easily accessible.
First Aid Kit: This should include basic medication, bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers and other necessary items for immediate treatment of injuries.
Whistle or Horn: These are crucial for signaling for help in case of emergencies and getting the attention of nearby boats.
Fire Extinguisher: A small fire extinguisher is mandatory safety equipment for all boats, regardless of size.
VHF Radio: This ensures you stay connected with the coast guard in case of emergencies and allows you to receive updated weather information and warnings.
Emergency Flares: These can be used to signal your location to other boats or rescuers in case you get lost or stranded.
Bilge Pump: This is essential to pump out any water that might get into the boat.
Drinking Water and Food: Pack enough for everyone on board to avoid dehydration and starvation in case your return gets delayed.
Sunscreen: Children’s skin is particularly sensitive to the sun, so sunscreen is a must to prevent sunburn.
Child-Safe Bug Repellent: Bugs can be a problem on the water, keep the kids safe with kid-friendly bug repellent.
Extra Clothing: This is especially necessary for children who might get wet and need a change of clothes to prevent hypothermia.
Anchor: An essential piece of equipment to keep your boat steady when you stop for any reason.
Navigation and Maps: Even if you are familiar with the area, having navigational tools can help you avoid getting lost and trace back your route.
Paddles or Oars: In case the motor gives out, spare paddles or oars can help you get back to shore.

Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 50 Sunscreen Spray

Sun Safety While Boating

As we pack up our gear for a day of sun-soaked boating with the kids, at LHWK, we always stress on the importance of sun safety. You may think that boating is all about water, water, and more water; a delightful realm where the scorching rays of the sun can’t touch us. But, kids, kids, kids! Listen up!!! Life, as we all know, is full of surprises, especially when it comes to mother nature? The same water that cools you down ironically enhances the damaging effects of sun exposure. Just because you’re under the water, it doesn’t mean UV rays are not giving you a sunburn.

Did you know that by nature’s design, water reflects up to 75% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays? Yes, you can even get a sunburn on a cloudy day! Kids should always wear sunscreen and reapply often when in the water.

Lather up on a broad-spectrum sunscreen and wear a sturdy hat. But hey, being safe doesn’t mean dressing like an astronaut! Invest in comfortable and light clothing too because you’ll get hot in the full sun. Here’s a few more tips you should practice to help your little ones avoid a sunburn:

Always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, it blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
Choose a sunscreen that has a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
Apply sunscreen generously before going outdoors.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours and immediately after swimming or profuse sweating.
Protect your lips with a lip balm with a SPF of at least 15.
Do not rely on sunscreen alone, also consider wearing protective clothing, hat, and sunglasses.
Seek shade when the sun’s rays are most intense, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Planning Ahead: Bring Snacks, Food, and Formula!

If you’ve been following “Life Happens With Kids” (LHWK), you’ll know we’re all about making family activities fun! So, let’s jump into our vital planning phase for a day of boating with your beautiful kids. Undoubtedly, you’re going to have to bring four essential things: Snacks, food, water, and for the younger ones formula! Kids run on fuel, and a day on the water will definitely stoke their little engines. Without the right sustenance, you might be dealing with cranky sailors instead of easy-going mates.

Here’s a list of snacks you may want to bring aboard:

Fresh Fruit Slices
Vegetable Sticks with Hummus Dip
String Cheese Sticks
Whole Grain Crackers
Yogurt Tubes
Granola Bars
Applesauce Pouches
Pretzels

Consider bringing meals that don’t require a lot of preparation, like simple sandwiches and wraps. You don’t want to be stuck in the galley while everyone else is having fun out on deck.

For the little ones, you’ll need proper supplies for formula feeding, such as bottles, nipples, and storage containers. Making sure you have enough formula from shore will ensure you aren’t left high and dry out at sea.

Choosing the Right Boats for Family Adventures

Choosing the right boat for family trips is almost as crucial as remembering the day of the boat trip itself! Whether you’re planning a high-octane day racing around in a sport crossover or lounging about in a super sport while the water happily laps at your boat’s hull, we’ve got the lowdown to help make the best choice for your family. Yes, that’s right, we’re talking boats, boats, and more boats!

Bunch of kids clambering aboard with excited, twinkling eyes keen on a day of fun swimming in the water? Formula boats score major brownie points as an excellent option. Stable on water, they provide a smooth ride and plenty more space for everyone- kids, parents, and are easily stocked with safety gear galore.

Pontoon boats are just the thing for days spent lazing about in the sun or fishing. These boats are great for larger groups, with a huge deck area stretching out across the boat so you can entertain family and friends with ease.

And don’t forget about speedboats, which offer an exciting ride with plenty of power under its hood ideal for watersports activities.

With a little planning, the right “sailing” gears, and some handy info under your belt, you are all set to make this possible. So, here’s to sunny boating days and a family brimming with joy. Dive in; the water’s great!

Building Kids’ Confidence through Boating

Boating is so much fun! If you ask me, there’s no better way to instill confidence in kids than through a boating adventure. Here’s how Life Happens With Kids recommends you help your kids be more confident through boating.

Boat safety – that’s always the first lesson. Boat-savvy kids are safe kids! Children’s boat safety begins with knowing their gear. Make sure they understand how to operate and use life jackets properly.

Moving on to swimming. It may sound like the most natural activity in the world while on a boat, but do you know it’s the best defense in water? Involve your kids in regular swimming lessons before the family boating adventure.

Next, teach your kids confidence by teaching them to control a boat. Most kids will absolutely love the challenge of taking the helm and navigating an unfamiliar environment under direct supervision. Show them how to use the boat’s equipment such as charts, compasses, and depth sounders.

Finally, teach your children about the importance of respecting nature while on the water. Explain to them how these creatures can be harmed if they pollute or make loud noises. Encourage them to observe wildlife and discuss the consequences of their behavior on nature.

Most importantly, ensure that everyone is wearing a life jacket while in the water. Small children should always wear one, even when near shore.

Why Kids and Boats are a Perfect Combination for Weekend Fun

If there’s something kids love, it’s boats – or rather, the fun that comes with boating. Nothing rivals the joy on their little faces as the boat cruises on the water. It’s the epitome of family fun, and a sure-fire way to make any day unforgettable. Just picture it; the water, the sun, your family, and a boat. See what we mean?

Boating brings life to the family dynamics; it’s the gift guide to everlasting memories that keeps giving holiday after holiday. What’s more, a boating adventure allows kids to learn about environmental conservation, the water cycles, and aquatic life. It also teaches them to respect nature and appreciate the earth’s beauty.

We at Life Happens With Kids (LHWK) believe that water and boats go together for kids like peanut butter and jelly – it’s a match made in aquatic haven. And let’s be honest, even if the kids squabble now and again in the day, they return with smiles that light up the entire neighborhood.

Kids, water, and fun are ingredients that automatically make any boating adventure a success. Here’s a few fun activities to make your day out more memorable:

Fishing: With a simple rod and some bait, children can learn about the different species of fish in the area.
Scavenger Hunt: Enjoy a nature scavenger hunt where kids can search for different types of birds, fish, or marine wildlife.
Watercolor Painting: Pack some watercolors and paper for kids to sketch and paint the splendor of the open water and landscapes.
Storytelling: Children can take turns telling tales about pirates, mermaids, or create their own nautical adventure.
Kite Flying: If the boat isn’t moving too fast, and there’s a good wind, flying a kite from the deck could be a lot of fun.
Starred Navigation: At night, kids can learn about different constellations and how sailors used them to navigate.
Reading: Bring along books about the sea, marine animals or famous explorers and read them together.
Model Boat Building: Pack some materials and children can make mini boats or rafts, then float them on the water.
Photography: Give kids a disposable or waterproof camera and let them snap away at the scenery, wildlife, or each other.
Play “I Spy”: This classic game is great on the boat. Try “I Spy” with things only seen in the boat or the sea environment.

Fun Ideas To Create An Unforgettable Boating Experience for Kids

Ensuring Safe Boating While Exploring the Water with Kids

If you thought safety was boring, think again! Ensuring safe boating with your kids can be a fun, interactive lesson that they’ll thank you for when they’re becoming the family’s designated boat captain down the line. Remember, the first rule of fun is always to be safe! So, don your spiffy life jacket, load up the family, and set sail off the gulf coast.

1. Wear a life jacket at all times while on the boat.
2. Have up-to-date navigational charts on board to plan your route.
3. Check the weather forecast before venturing out onto the water.
4. Have enough life jackets and other safety gear for all passengers on board.
5. Pack extra supplies in case of emergency situations such as flares, flashlights, first aid kit, etc.
6. Follow all local laws and regulations when it comes to vessel operation.
7. Don’t overload the boat with too many people or equipment; adhere to the boat’s weight capacity and number of passengers.
8. Have a fire extinguisher on board in case of an onboard fire.
9. Make sure everyone has had proper boating safety lessons and knows how to operate the vessel correctly.
10. Take regular breaks from any extended journeys or operations for rest and refreshment.

Enjoy the water, enjoy your family, and enjoy the ride. Remember, boating is safe when you learn and apply safety measures. After all, when it comes to family boating on the coast, Life Happens With Kids!

FAQ’s About a Kids Boating Adventure

Q: How do you take kids on a boat for the first time?

A: Ahoy there! So, you’ve decided to introduce your little adventurers to the world of sailing! The first boat trip must start with a mini-exploration of the boat on land. Yo ho! Let them turn the wheels, pull the ropes and hide in cabins. They’ll think they’re pirates in no time! After they get familiar with the boat, explain water safety and let them know that the next trip will be an actual water adventure. Remember to pack boat-boredom busters: coloring books, snacks, and some Harry Potter wouldn’t hurt. Safety is a priority, so invest in kids’ sized life jackets. Remember, your initial reaction shapes their experience, keep a positive and calm demeanor.

Q: Can a 6 month old go on a boat?

A: Well, even if your baby holds a world record in swimming, you might want to be cautious! It is generally safe for babies to be on a boat when they weigh enough to wear a properly fitted flotation device. Most babies at this age are under 18 pounds, making it unsafe for them to go boating yet.

Q: Can a 2-year-old go on a boat?

A: Sailing away with a 2-year-old? Wow, exciting adventures ahead! Yes, a 2-year-old can absolutely go on a boat. But remember, toddlers on a boat are like squirrels on energy drinks, so keep a close eye on them. Besides the essential life jacket (and perhaps a stylish captain’s hat), be sure to keep plenty of snacks, drinks, toys, and sunscreen on board. Don’t forget, a well-rested toddler makes for a smoother voyage, so count in their nap time.

Q: Do kids get seasick on boats?

A: Kids, like adults, can absolutely get seasick. Many a lovely boat trip have been eclipsed by the dreaded “are we there yet?” followed by the green-face syndrome. Motion sickness is common in kids 2-12, eyeing that swirling whirlpool may not help their tummies. Have a stash of anti-seasickness remedies: ginger cookies, peppermint oil, or drama-free Dramamine. Keep the experience light and ensure they know it’s a normal occurrence, and not to worry, they’re not turning into an octopus! Remember, at Life Happens With Kids, we believe every adventure strengthens the bond of the family. So, whether you’re navigating uncharted waters for the first time or you’re old salts, take on the adventure because a smooth sea never made an expert sailor. Happy Sailing!

About Us

Life Happens With Kids is a blog dedicated to helping parents get the most out of time spent with their children. We provide tips and tricks for everything from planning vacations to playing games, as well as advice on how to navigate the sometimes-rocky waters of parenting. Our goal is to make experiences with your family more enjoyable and help create lasting memories that will last a lifetime. Join us, and let’s make life happen!